Why Does My Heater Smell?

Burr. It is cold outside here in Brevard County, FL. After the cold snap a few weeks ago, many on the Space Coast were looking forward to warmer weather. Even Punxsutawney Phil has predicted an early spring for 2016. In spite of all this, we are experiencing the impact of a cold front, the first in a succession of cold fronts, over the next few days. If you have yet to crank up the heat in your home, chances are you will be doing so at some point in the week.

Floridians rarely have the opportunity to turn on their heat, one of the many reasons our Northern neighbors find the weather here so enticing. However, this does not mean that residents of the Space Coast need never to do so. The weather as of late is evidence of this. If you decide to crank up the heat this week, you won’t be alone.

Many who turn on the heat for the first time experience an off-putting burning smell coming from their heaters. Has this happened to you? Many complain of a musty smell emanating from their heaters and have no clue as to why. While this smell can be bothersome, more often than not it isn’t something to be worried about. Here are a few reasons why your heater may be giving off a foul smell.

First things first, if you smell something burning play it safe. Turn off your heater and do an inspection to make sure nothing is actually on fire. Once you have made certain there isn’t a fire present, proceed.

After several months of no use, dust can accumulate in the heating components that make up your heater and in the ductwork. When you turn on the heat for the first time, that dust burns off and gives out the less than melodious smell you may be experiencing. According to experts, the smell usually resolves itself within 45 minutes or so. Clogged filters can also be the cause of the pesky burning smell.

These are both rather innocuous reasons for the burning smell your heater may be giving off. They are also things you can do something about. However, another cause for the burnt odor could be a malfunction with the blower. In this case, you need to call in the experts at Space Age Cooling and Heating for a heating repair.

An odor coming from your heater can be scary! In most cases it is nothing to fret about, but it is always best to play it safe. If you notice a stench that just isn’t normal and you don’t feel comfortable checking it out, call Space Age Cooling and Heating. Our heating experts serve the residents of Brevard County with outstanding service and we look forward to serving you as well.